I'm so all over this. Anyone know if there's a way to hook this up to the Marysville trails? I commute by bike everyday from Penniac to F'ton and ideally I'm trying to find a way to get some singletrack/trail action on the way in...
-b
Allen Brook Loop - Penniac
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These trails aren't good for complete beginners, but they can be ridden at most skill levels. These are finesse trails - there aren't many features that are individually difficult, but the trails get harder as you go faster. The trail is well drained and generally dry, but they are quite rooty and rocky in some places and can be slippery in wet weather.
These trails are in great shape right now (July 09) - Eric and Jane have done a ton of work on them in preparation for the Hadley Challenge - and they are now flagged with pink/black tape, with an added blue tape just before trail heads. Despite all the rain the trails are dry - there are even bypasses around all the muddy spots on the roads. I think that the description I have posted is good enough for you to find the Allen Brook Loop by yourself, without having anyone to show you. If you try it, post here and let me know if you had any trouble.
There are two sections to the Penniac trails - the Allen Brook Loop nearer to F'ton and the Mt Hope section. This map and description shows only the Allen Brook Loop. You can get between the two on woods roads, but this is a maze. If you have a GPS, PM me and I will send you the file. It is also possible to get to the Mt Hope trails by driving up to Mt Hope and up some woods roads. Those trails are much easier to find from that end. I will try to get directions to the Mt Hope trails from that end, but it might take a while as I don't go in that way myself.
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Recommended Minimum Skill Level: Intermediate
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Thanks, Mr. Yertle. I will be hitting this soon.
Edit: I made it out and wow! This is my new favorite local trail. It's inspiring. So much so, that I was inspired to make up a break down.
I found and entered the trail as described above with no problems. Keeping on the trail was not an issue as it's marked very well the whole way through. I didn't have the instructions and map with me and just went by memory and had only one problem. At the bottom of a very steep, over grown, loose rock descent the words, "Do not go down the hill [left].", came echoing back to me like so many other unheeded warnings. The only way back up is not nearly as fun as it was to come down. That was my own fault.
I should note that the night before my solo ride a group of us attempted the loop the evening before, but ran out of light. We aborted mission at the beginning of 'Colleen's way' and took a left to what would lead us to the main road to coast back to the cars. We encountered a very big dog and a very cranky, deaf(?) owner. While holding the dog back the owner assured us that he does not just bark. Do not turn left here, either!
I can't think of many places where I have ridden so much continual singletrack in the Marirtimes. This loop must have 85-90% singletrack. No opportunity to lay down some bike specific trail was missed by the builders. There are some 'hauled in' wooden bridges, but most of the construction was done with earth and stone, and finely done at that. I'm sure the wooden structures will be replaced with the same, in time. There are some real gems in terms technical terrain and use of natural features on this loop. Conditions ranged from short grassy climbs to longer, very rooty stretches that crawl across the plateau and a tiny bit of fireroad to climb up to Buckeye Lodge and complete the loop. The trail is designed to offer pay off to those willing to make to commitment. It seems like the further into the woods you get, the further your smile spreads across your face. Before the loop closes and the double back begins there is an awesome descent that switches back on it self a couple of times and drops you off near a stream followed by a pretty steady climb back up. Nothing too steep, though. After, finishing the loop, doubling back gives a whole new persective on the trail that brought you in. My favorite section was the 'Drunken Clearcut'. See how fast you can rail this twisty bit. When, I went through there was a partridge feigning injury to lure me away from it's young. I was not to be fooled though, and ate them anyway. There was deer sign, too, but I didn't find any of those to eat.
It's worth noting that the conditions mostly dry and traction was never an issue for me (any more than usual on a singlespeed). I did have to push some sections, most notably the first set of switch backs at the very head of the trail. Don't let these discourage you. I'd like to see anyone pull these off cold. Because of some of the very rooty and rocky sections (I did end up hitting the ground, and but good!) and committment (2.5 hours for me with minimal breaks), I have to give this trail an intermediate skill level requirement. This is considering an individual doing it alone or for a group thinking about a consistent pace for all riders.* Be prepared to make the most out of this epic loop. Bring lots of water and something to eat, you'll thank yourself.
* The Hadley Challenge Event would be great way to check out this loop and more at any skill level, under a very safe and organized umbrella. Don't miss the chance to ride these trails and show yourself what your made of.